Helen W. Piper

Piper, Helen W., 95, died Sunday, March 10, 2013. She was born in Bradford, PA, the daughter of Chester and Elizabeth Wann. In 1939, she was graduated from Wheaton College (MA). Later that year she married Howard “Pug” Piper, and the two moved to Lock Haven PA, where they reared their four children. She enjoyed an adventuresome life, accompanying her husband as he piloted small planes to Europe, Africa, South America, and Australia. In 1974, they moved to Wichita. Pug died in 1981, and Helen chose to make Wichita her permanent home. Although she never held a paying job, she was a tireless volunteer for decades, especially with the Wichita Childrens Home. Helen is preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons, Dan and Howard, Jr.; brother, Henry Wann; sister, Betty Bruehl; and long-time companion Cliff Stone. She is survived by: children, David (Elena) Piper of Oaxaca, Mexico, Pat (Mick) Piper-Smyer of Lewisburg, PA, Wayne Randolph of Austin, TX, Boo Nystrom of Vasteros, Sweden; grandchildren, Aaron Woods (fiance Laura Lis), Brendan Piper-Smyer (fiance, Brittany Erwin), Olivia Piper (fianc, Roddy Von Seldeneck), Kyle Piper-Smyer (Kate Piper), Denay (Travis) Johnson, Cory Piper, Gill Piper, Elaine Piper; great-grandchild, Ivy Von Seldeneck; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be at 3:00 P.M., Saturday, March 16, 2013, at St. Stephens Episcopal Church. Memorials have been established with: Wichita Childrens Home, 810 N. Holyoke St., Wichita, KS 67208; St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 7404 E. Killarney Place, Wichita, KS 67206. Downing Lahey Mortuary East.